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Orthodontist Houston TX Invisalign |Greater Houston OrthodonticsSat, 01 Aug 2015 17:49:08 +0000en-UShourly1We Present The ABC’s Of Orthodonticshttps://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/08/01/we-present-the-abcs-of-orthodontics/
https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/08/01/we-present-the-abcs-of-orthodontics/#commentsSat, 01 Aug 2015 17:49:08 +0000https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/?p=21447Here at Greater Houston Orthodontics in Houston TX, we know that orthodontics may seem a bit daunting to understand for many but with the 2015-16 school season closing in, now is the best time to learn what some call the “ABC’s of Orthodontics.” Simply put, “A” is for age, “B” is for braces types, and “C” is cost and/or choice . Using this approach makes dealing with orthodontics a whole lot easier.

]]>Here at Greater Houston Orthodontics in Houston TX, we know that orthodontics may seem a bit daunting to understand for many but with the 2015-16 school season closing in, now is the best time to learn what some call the “ABC’s of Orthodontics.” Simply put, “A” is for age, “B” is for braces types, and “C” is cost and/or choice . Using this approach makes dealing with orthodontics a whole lot easier.

Age is an important factor when it comes to orthodontics for children. Orthodontists usually agree that it is best to wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth before implementing any kind of orthodontic procedures. Furthermore, an evaluation of a child’s teeth by age 7 can prevent problems in the future. Some of these problems can prove to be more difficult to resolve as a child grows older. Orthodontic evaluations are usually complimentary and do not require any kind of referral from a dentist. It’s best to have an evaluation during the summer time so that if braces are required the initial process will not interfere with their schooling.

When it comes to braces, a lot has changed over the years. Orthodontic techniques and the equipment used has been vastly improved compared to the older styles that most adults who had braces as kids are familiar with. Today’s orthodontists are more educated and are better trained than they were years ago. This training and education is exemplified in the orthodontic procedures practiced and the communication with their patients, not only explaining how a treatment will work but also why it will work. In other words, which treatment is best for their patient based on their unique and individual needs.

There are more choices than ever before for patients at any age. It is a mistake to think braces are just for kids. About half of all new patients that undergo orthodontic treatment are, in fact, adults.

Finally, there is the issue of the “C” in the ABCs of Orthodontics: cost. It’s practically impossible to get a fixed price for any type of orthodontic treatment as the cost depends a great deal on the treatment needed, which is dependent on the unique needs of each and every patient seeking orthodontic care. Luckily, interest free payment plans are the norm when it comes to orthodontic practices’ billing procedures. There are also “health savings accounts.” A health savings account is a way to provide funding for treatment before taxes. There are also loans that can be taken out with manageable repayment plans, specifically for orthodontics. Most accredited orthodontic practices will have an in-house insurance specialist that can answer any questions that should arise about payment options, insurance inquiries, and even help with any paperwork that needs to be filled out.

Cost should not prevent someone from attaining a perfect smile which can benefit their life in a multitude of ways like improving self-confidence and mental well-being.

“C” can also stand for choice. There are more orthodontic options than ever before including, ceramic braces, Invisalign and traditional braces. Contact Greater Houston Orthodontics to learn more or to schedule a complimentary initial exam. We look forward to you getting the smile you deserve.

]]>https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/08/01/we-present-the-abcs-of-orthodontics/feed/0Here Are Some Fun Facts About The Teeth In Animalshttps://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/07/17/here-are-some-fun-facts-about-the-teeth-in-animals-houston-tx/
https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/07/17/here-are-some-fun-facts-about-the-teeth-in-animals-houston-tx/#commentsFri, 17 Jul 2015 13:29:46 +0000https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/?p=21439We dug up some interesting information about different types if species and their teeth we thought everyone might enjoy reading on our blog at Greater Houston Orthodontics. Thanks for visiting our blog and enjoy the post. Feel free to share it with your friends in Houston TX.Elephants: Did you know their tusks are overgrown incisors used for scooping and digging up food? These giant mammals also grind down their molars. Their molars can weigh up to 10 lbs and measure one foot wide. If they lose their tusks, they can then grow replacements up to six times during their lives. Horses: Their teeth have intertwined enamel and dentin rather than the enamel surrounding the dentin like humans which allows the permanent teeth to continue to grow as their teeth erupt. This is to compensate for the continued loss of tooth structure that occurs with grinding their food while they eat. Males usually have 4 canines, but females don’t. You can determine their sex by checking their teeth.Beavers: They have oversized incisors. They never stop growing so they are constantly trying to wear them down. That is why they chew on wood. The front side of their teeth actually has the metal iron in it, which is why they are a rusty orange color and so strong throughout their lives to chew through wood and make dams.Dogs: Man’s best friend has a very high pH in its mouth which prevents demineralization of enamel which is why they rarely get cavities on their 42 teeth.Giraffes: Only have bottom teeth. This is why it looks like they have such a big upper lip.Cats: Have 30 teeth as adults with similar to humans with four molars, 10 premolars, four cuspids and 12 incisor teeth.Pigs: Baby pigs have 28 baby teeth like humans but have 44 teeth instead of 32 as adults.Armadillo: Has 32 teeth with no molars, only incisors and caninesMoose: Like giraffes, moose only have lower incisors with no opposing uppers. They are separated from the back teeth by a huge diastema or space.Whales: Each tooth is completely encased in cementum which is a calcium layer covering the tooth, except for the tips of teeth in older whales where the cementum has worn away to reveal the enamel below. Narwhals (small artic whales) have a huge single tusk, like a unicorn, that is the most neurologically complex tooth known and used in eating, navigating, and even mating. Some whales can have as many as 250 teeth and other whales have none.Sharks and Lizards: Most reptiles and fish are considered “polyphydonts” and exfoliate old teeth to be replaced by new ones throughout their life.Snails: Even though their mouths are no larger than the head of a pin, they can have over 25,000 teeth over a lifetime – which are located on the tongue and continually lost and replaced like a shark!Rabbits: Almost all mammals have primary or baby teeth and permanent teeth, but bunnies typically lose their baby teeth in utero before they are born.

]]>We dug up some interesting information about different types if species and their teeth we thought everyone might enjoy reading on our blog at Greater Houston Orthodontics. Thanks for visiting our blog and enjoy the post. Feel free to share it with your friends in Houston TX.Elephants: Did you know their tusks are overgrown incisors used for scooping and digging up food? These giant mammals also grind down their molars. Their molars can weigh up to 10 lbs and measure one foot wide. If they lose their tusks, they can then grow replacements up to six times during their lives. Horses: Their teeth have intertwined enamel and dentin rather than the enamel surrounding the dentin like humans which allows the permanent teeth to continue to grow as their teeth erupt. This is to compensate for the continued loss of tooth structure that occurs with grinding their food while they eat. Males usually have 4 canines, but females don’t. You can determine their sex by checking their teeth.Beavers: They have oversized incisors. They never stop growing so they are constantly trying to wear them down. That is why they chew on wood. The front side of their teeth actually has the metal iron in it, which is why they are a rusty orange color and so strong throughout their lives to chew through wood and make dams.Dogs: Man’s best friend has a very high pH in its mouth which prevents demineralization of enamel which is why they rarely get cavities on their 42 teeth.Giraffes: Only have bottom teeth. This is why it looks like they have such a big upper lip.Cats: Have 30 teeth as adults with similar to humans with four molars, 10 premolars, four cuspids and 12 incisor teeth.Pigs: Baby pigs have 28 baby teeth like humans but have 44 teeth instead of 32 as adults.Armadillo: Has 32 teeth with no molars, only incisors and caninesMoose: Like giraffes, moose only have lower incisors with no opposing uppers. They are separated from the back teeth by a huge diastema or space.Whales: Each tooth is completely encased in cementum which is a calcium layer covering the tooth, except for the tips of teeth in older whales where the cementum has worn away to reveal the enamel below. Narwhals (small artic whales) have a huge single tusk, like a unicorn, that is the most neurologically complex tooth known and used in eating, navigating, and even mating. Some whales can have as many as 250 teeth and other whales have none.Sharks and Lizards: Most reptiles and fish are considered “polyphydonts” and exfoliate old teeth to be replaced by new ones throughout their life.Snails: Even though their mouths are no larger than the head of a pin, they can have over 25,000 teeth over a lifetime – which are located on the tongue and continually lost and replaced like a shark!Rabbits: Almost all mammals have primary or baby teeth and permanent teeth, but bunnies typically lose their baby teeth in utero before they are born.
]]>https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/07/17/here-are-some-fun-facts-about-the-teeth-in-animals-houston-tx/feed/0Do You Know The Differences Between A Dentist, Pedodontist, And Orthodontist In Houston TX ?https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/07/03/differences-between-a-dentist-pedodontist-and-orthodontist-in-cityst/
https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/07/03/differences-between-a-dentist-pedodontist-and-orthodontist-in-cityst/#commentsFri, 03 Jul 2015 21:17:26 +0000https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/?p=21414Many consumers are confused why they should choose an orthodontist in the Houston TX area at Greater Houston Orthodontics versus a general dentist or pedodontist to straighten their teeth with braces or Invisalign. Plain and Simple… the answer is experience and training.

]]>Many consumers are confused why they should choose an orthodontist in the Houston TX area at Greater Houston Orthodontics versus a general dentist or pedodontist to straighten their teeth with braces or Invisalign. Plain and Simple… the answer is experience and training.

What are the Differences Between Dentists, Pedodontists, and Orthodontists?

All are dentists who specialize in oral care, and all are technically dentists.

Orthodontists complete an additionaltwo – three years of training in orthodontics, above and beyond general dentistry

Pedodontists complete and additional two – three years training to specialize in all areas of general dentistry for children

All orthodontists are dentists, but only 10 percent of dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists limit their practice to moving teeth and correcting jaw irregularities

Dentists and Pedodontists refer their patients to an orthodontist if they have problems with the alignment of their teeth or a bite abnormality of some kind. The same as a physician would refer you to a cardiologist or orthopedists if you had heart or skeletal issues.

If you do not suffer from a bite irregularity or misaligned teeth, you will likely never have to see an orthodontist. If you do, an orthodontist is the best qualified professional to treat your needs for a healthy long term dental result.

With the sudden rise in general dentists and pedodontists offering orthodontic services, it is important to understand the differences in treatment delivery and care! At Greater Houston Orthodontics all we do is orthodontics, all day long, day in a day out, with thousands of beautiful smiles created over the years. Before you make your final selection to straighten your teeth, contact our office for a free smile exam and learn about the difference.

Even though you or your child have braces, everyone should be able to indulge in holiday themed treats. The following treats are sure to please everyone whether your having a small celebration at home or a full blown backyard barbecue.

Even though you or your child have braces, everyone should be able to indulge in holiday themed treats. The following treats are sure to please everyone whether your having a small celebration at home or a full blown backyard barbecue.

Red, White and Blue Kebabs

Place a banana slice at one end of the kebab stick, then a blueberry and then a raspberry. Keep layering the fruit. Leave enough room at the end of the kebab so that you can hold it. If you want to get really creative, layer the kebabs so that you form an American Flag and display it on a serving tray. that will surely impress any guest. If you want to be a little less healthy, you can switch out the banana slices for marshmallows.

Red, White and Blue Cupcakes and Sugar Cookies

Everyone loves cupcakes and cookies which are easy to eat even when you have braces. To keep kids entertained during a backyard barbecue set up a cupcake or cookie decorating area. Kids can decorate their favorite dessert using red, white and blue icing then devour their delicious masterpieces. Instead of buying icing already in the tube, you can fill smaller sandwich bags with a ½ cup of icing and cut off the tip of a corner so kids can use the bag as a decorating tool.

Sno-Cones

Great for kids and adults, sno-cones help you stay cool in the summer heat. All you need is shaved ice and cups to serve them in. A quick, easy way to get shaved ice is to chop it ice up in your blender. You can either buy the syrup or make it at home by combining two parts fruit juice to one part water.

Firecracker JELL-O Pops

Kraft offers an easy to follow Firecracker JELL-O pop recipe. This recipe layers blue, white and red flavored JELL-O with a cherry to look like a firecracker.

Red, White and Blue Ice Cubes

In an ice cube tray, fill the spaces with red and blue fruit. You can use strawberry slices, raspberries or blueberries. Then add water and freeze. Use the ice cubes in a glass of water for a refreshing fruity flavor. To make the ice cubes even more festive use an ice cube tray that has star shapes like this one from Bed Bath & Beyond.

]]>https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/19/fathers-day-contest/feed/0Improve Facial Aesthetics And Reverse Aging With Orthodontics In Houston TXhttps://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/17/reverse-aging-with-orthodontics-in-houston-tx/
https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/17/reverse-aging-with-orthodontics-in-houston-tx/#commentsWed, 17 Jun 2015 17:47:37 +0000https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/?p=21385Orthodontics can help children, teens, and adults of all ages look better throughout their lifetime. Adults today are much more aware than in the past of the importance of creating and maintaining a beautiful smile.

]]>Orthodontics can help children, teens, and adults of all ages look better throughout their lifetime. Adults today are much more aware than in the past of the importance of creating and maintaining a beautiful smile.

With longer life expectancy, a healthy, beautiful smile is as important at age 70 as it is at age 16. Orthodontist Dr. Amir Davoody is a dental specialist who has the education, experience and expertise to help patients of all ages attain properly aligned teeth and jaws for a lifetime of dental health.

Witness Life Changing Effects of Orthodontic Treatment

If you’re ready to witness the life-changing effects of orthodontic treatment, simply CLICK HERE. The images and the results are real and presented on the American Association of Orthodontists website. They demonstrate how facial aesthetics can be altered through orthodontic treatment. The results are amazing!

Today’s orthodontic treatment options are not as noticeable and treatment time is much less than in the past. Traditional braces are small and sleek, whether metal or a tooth-colored ceramic. Some braces are not braces at all, but are clear, removable “aligners,” called Invisalign. They are used to nudge teeth toward their ideal positions for a younger look.

Orthodontic Treatment is Affordable for Everyone

You will be pleasantly surprised to learn how affordable orthodontic treatment is today. At Greater Houston Orthodontics we offer no-interest payment plans and are happy to work with you to design a financial program that works within their budget.

Get Started Today with a Complimentary Evaluation

No matter what your dental problem, contact our office today to improve facial aesthetics, whether you are self-conscious about wearing braces or not. Our team at Greater Houston Orthodontics will guide you through the process and help you reach your goal of a beautiful, healthy, and radiant smile to last a lifetime.

Flossing is an important step in everyone’s oral hygiene routine and the following are just a few reasons why.

Most of the time adults brush their teeth out of habit but they skip flossing. According to National Smile Month, only 21% of adults use dental floss regularly and one in three adults have never even flossed their teeth. The benefits of flossing make it an important step in your oral hygiene routine especially if you have braces or a built-in retainer.

Flossing is an important step in everyone’s oral hygiene routine and the following are just a few reasons why.

Most of the time adults brush their teeth out of habit but they skip flossing. According to National Smile Month, only 21% of adults use dental floss regularly and one in three adults have never even flossed their teeth. The benefits of flossing make it an important step in your oral hygiene routine especially if you have braces or a built-in retainer.

Flossing aids in the removal of plaque which is a cavity causing bacteria. When tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of the tooth, decays and is destroyed a cavity then forms. A cavity is a permanently damaged part of the tooth that causes toothaches and sensitivity. In order to repair the tooth it must be filled by a dentist.

Flossing can reduce the risk of gum disease. One of the most commonly known forms of gum disease is gingivitis which forms when bacteria builds up in the plaque and causes the gums to be inflamed. Brushing only removes some of the plaque on the tooth. Plaque buildup in between the teeth and near the gum is more easily removed by flossing.

Prolonged neglect of your oral hygiene routine can ultimately result in the loss of your teeth. This can be a very emotional and expensive experience. After the loss of your teeth, two of the most popular options are to be fitted for dentures or have dental implants – both of which can cost thousands of dollars.

Here are a couple ideas to help keep the kids entertained this summer while they are out of school.

Enjoy a relaxing sit by the lake or watch your child play on one of the many playgrounds Discovery Green has to offer. A water fountain park is also there to help cool down the kids on a hot summer day. And incase you forgot a to bring a picnic to enjoy on the plentiful lawns, don’t worry! The Lake House and The Grove offer delicious food for both parents and children.

Here are a couple ideas to help keep the kids entertained this summer while they are out of school.

Enjoy a relaxing sit by the lake or watch your child play on one of the many playgrounds Discovery Green has to offer. A water fountain park is also there to help cool down the kids on a hot summer day. And incase you forgot a to bring a picnic to enjoy on the plentiful lawns, don’t worry! The Lake House and The Grove offer delicious food for both parents and children.

During a hot Houston summer everyone can be grateful for an air conditioned environment. The Children’s Museum of Houston is hosting a “Summer of Epic Adventure,” featuring all events, all day until September 9th. With a kid sized metropolis and FlowWorks, an interactive water exhibit, any child is sure to have an educational and exciting time.

Located at 1 Hope Boulevard Galveston, Texas 77554, Moody Gardens attracts kids of all ages. The Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid and Discovery Museum feature over 9,000 species of animals. Seasonal attractions for the summer include Palm Beach and a Zip Line adventure.

Chosen as the 2014 Local’s Choice Award for Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant, The Aquarium is one spot you cannot miss. Located near Allen Parkway and I-45, The Aquarium is more than just a restaurant. If you are not in the mood for food then you can enjoy one of their many exhibits or one of their amusement rides.

The closest Schlitterbahn location to Houston is located on Galveston Island. With more than 35 thrilling water adventures, Schlitterbahn offers a little bit of everything for everyone. If you are feeling more adventurous this summer the original Schlitterbahn is located in New Braunfels, a quick 2 hour drive away from Houston. There are also locations in South Padre and Corpus Christi, as well as Kansas City, Kansas.

]]>https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/04/summer-activities-to-keep-cool-in-houston/feed/0United States Reduces Optimal Fluoride Level In Drinking Waterhttps://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/01/united-states-reduces-optimal-fluoride-level-in-drinking-water/
https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/2015/06/01/united-states-reduces-optimal-fluoride-level-in-drinking-water/#commentsMon, 01 Jun 2015 15:19:59 +0000https://greaterhoustonorthodontist.com/?p=21330The ongoing controversy about too much fluoride in our drinking water has finally resulted in the US department of Health and Human Resources (HHS) lowering the recommended level of fluoride in community drinking water. This was announced April 27, 2015 in a news release.

]]>The ongoing controversy about too much fluoride in our drinking water has finally resulted in the US department of Health and Human Resources (HHS) lowering the recommended level of fluoride in community drinking water. This was announced April 27, 2015 in a news release.

Americans now have access to more sources of fluoride, such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, than they did when water fluoridation was first introduced in the United States in 1945. As a result, there has been an increase in fluorosis, which, in most cases, are white marking or spots on the tooth enamel. The new recommended fluoride levels will maintain the protective decay prevention benefits while reducing the occurrence of dental fluorosis.

“While additional sources of fluoride are more widely used than they were in 1962, the need for community water fluoridation still continues,” said U.S. Deputy Surgeon General Rear Admiral Boris D. Lushniak, M.D., M.P.H. “Community water fluoridation continues to reduce tooth decay in children and adults beyond that provided by using only toothpaste and other fluoride-containing products.”

Since community water fluoridation has led to a dramatic decline in both the amount and severity of tooth decay, it is considered one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century by the CDC (Center for Disease Control).

For the past 70 years, communities across the United States have found that fluoride in their public water systems significantly improved their residents’ oral health. While fluoride naturally occurs naturally in most water systems, levels are often too low to prevent tooth decay. Nearly 75 percent of Americans with public water systems receive fluoridated water.

Importance of Fluoride During Orthodontic treatment
The use of fluoride during orthodontic treatment at Greater Houston Orthodontics reduces the chances of white spots or decalcification that can occur around the brackets with fixed appliances. Children are not always the best brushers and fluoride is often prescribed during treatment as a preventative measure.

On the day your braces are placed, we instruct patients how to properly brush and floss their teeth and may prescribe an additional fluoride mouthwash or toothpaste for at-home treatment based on individual patient needs.